Thursday, April 4, 2024

E-Bikes May Soon Be Allowed on State Park Trails

Class 1 e-bikes may be allowed to operate on natural surface, nonmotorized trails on state park-managed land open to bicycles – explained in this recent news release – under a proposed DNR land use change.

Under current Michigan law, only Class 1 e-bikes – those that are pedal-assisted and can go up to 20 miles per hour – are allowed on improved surface trails. These are paths that are paved or consisting of gravel or asphalt. Current law also allows for local entities to expand or further regulate e-bike usage in their communities.

Results from a public survey, which was open throughout March, will be shared during the April 11 Michigan Natural Resources Commission meeting. The proposed policy change will go before DNR Director Scott Bowen for action at the commission's May meeting, with any approved change going into effect immediately thereafter.

Learn more about the current e-bike policy at Michigan.gov/DNR/Ebikes.